My beliefs and philosophy about teaching and learning:

1. All children can experience success in the classroom and in life. It is theirs to determine what that success will be.
2. One must be exposed to a myriad of ideas in order to find their own.
3. I am not teaching a child social studies. Rather, we are learning about social studies together.
4. Learning should be fun. It should stimulate thought, and even humor.
5. Being able to communicate ideas well in writing is a great accomplishment. Being able to also do it in another medium is divine.
6. Reflection - even for the master - is an essential part of growth.
7. Children need time to explore their own interests and who they are outside of the constraints of institutionalized learning. Free time with friends and family is a integral component of this. When at all possible, class time will be granted for completing assignments etc. Thus, a wise use of it by students is essential to me (See #9 below). As well, see Websites and People I Respect for more on the issue of homework.
8. Help me to help you (and your child). My door is open to your suggestions on how I can make your (their) learning happen for you (them).
9. Demonstrating respect for all people, for living things - and just things in general - is the first step in fostering peace. The world we live in wont tolerate much less of this from us for very long. Be respectful.
10. ATTENTION. Be attentive to the world around you and your presence in it.